Juventus coach Max Allegri defended his team after their 1-0 home defeat to Udinese on Monday.

The result leaves Juve's title hopes fading fast.

But Allegri reasoned: “Having the ambition to stay close to Inter gave us motivation, but as I've always said, Inter are having an extraordinary season, so they deserve credit.

“They started their project with Antonio Conte many years ago, so it's normal that they are favourite. Juventus began on a different path two years ago; our target is to return to the Champions League even if we last season got there.

“Simone [Inzaghi] is doing extraordinary work, but I am not crazy when I say certain things. There are different levels. In my first five years at Juventus, we had the best team and it was normal to win. Even if victories are always extraordinary, that was the norm. The same goes for Inter now. Having earned 60 points with a game in hand, means they have a great pace, so Simone and his staff deserve praise.

“I've always said Milan would have returned in the race. What we need to do now is work hard. I am happy with what the players have done until now. We have earned 52 points but we must get as many now," added Allegri.

“Of course, young players need time to grow. It's about finding balance and it's normal. This team has excellent players. We could have done more against Inter, but we faced an extraordinary team. We must do something more because a Champions League placement is not granted yet and this moment can become tricky. Right now, we should not look at the table but earn the points we'll need for the Champions League. We have more points than we expected to have at this point at the start of the season. We must be realistic in life.

“Inter played a Champions League Final last year. They've been improving, so they deserve praise. It's normal. On my side, I congratulate my players too because they are having an important season too."